Information on A8 variants appreciated
 

Afternoon all,
I've been away a wee while now since selling my D2 A8, but have that itch that just wont go away. Having aged considerably whilst trawling every internet source and option that I can think of, common sense has prevailed - Im back to you good folks in the know!

Ok, there is method to the madness here and its not please a case of blatant indecision that needs me to do the leg work behind the scenes. So please stay with me...

I originally set about looking for a *really nice* D2 2.8 Quattro. Gets me back into the car I loved and the presence it just oooozes. That enevitably led to the climbing up the engine sizes and range. When I got to the v10 I knew I was in trouble (and that's Big Ronnie's fault - and he knows it +++)

The D3 diesels have suddenly become an interesting proposition to have a little remap and play. Where I'm really struggling is to find concrete information on the differences between the 4.0 and 4.2 diesel options. Also, how credible are the 3.0 variants?

In essence - I'm looking for a beautiful example that will fill my driveway, has enough get up and go to keep me happy once in a while but wont be a rain cloud hanging over my head with the fear of a brutal bill awaiting me. Budget is negotiable around 2-5k depending on the car.

Talk to me collective. You have my fullest attention +++

On D3 4.0TDI is the one to avoid, intake manifolds are known to brake and send bits in the engine which destroys the engine. Not cheap to replace as preventative maintenance before they brake either at over £1000 each.

Any D2 has a risk of gearbox failing unless it's been replaced or rebuilt recently.

mpg wise looks like the 3.0 tdi just isn't worth it.

http://forum.a8parts.co.uk/showthread.php?t=5998

also

http://forum.a8parts.co.uk/showthread.php?t=9957

Hello Paul, welcome back +++

I take no responsibility for your choices, you're on your own here :ROFL:

A nice 4.2 TDi with a remap would be my choice if I was on the market for an A8, have a good look and I'm sure you'll find one

This has always been the best all rounder in my opinion. The extra refinement, power and likely high spec are worth the relatively small dip in economy. They have proven to be very reliable too. The 4.0 is definitely the one to avoid at all costs.

The 3.0 Tdi is a good engine, but for me lacks the refinement that you'd expect in a flagship model, and no matter how hard you nail it, its only ever going to go so fast. Generally lower spec cars too.
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